Pumpkins aren’t just for pies

Tame your bladder troubles with this seasonal delight 

Nearly a quarter of Americans suffer from overactive bladder, with frequent leaks and bathroom trips disrupting daily life—especially as you age.1  

This condition can rob you of sleep, lower self-confidence, and limit physical activity. Worse, people with nocturia (waking up to use the bathroom at night) face a higher risk of falls and early death.  

Yet—most people with urinary incontinence don’t discuss it with their doctor. Instead, they suffer in silence, relying on pads, wearing dark clothing, and staying close to home.

But you don’t have to endure another day living in fear of the next leak or bathroom emergency… 

Not when the answer to your bladder troubles might be hidden inside that bright, orange pumpkin sitting on your front porch. 

Pumpkin power for your bladder 

Pumpkin seeds are powerhouses for your health. And they contain loads of nutrients that directly support healthy bladder function—such as magnesium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. 

Plus, some impressive research shows that pumpkin seed oil, a concentration of the seed extract, can specifically reduce symptoms of your overactive bladder…  

In a major study published in the Journal of Traditional Complementary Medicine, 45 men and women diagnosed with overactive bladder took a test to evaluate the severity of their symptoms.2 Next, for 12 weeks they took 10 grams of pumpkin seed oil daily.

Ultimately, participants who took the oil experienced significant reductions in their overactive bladder symptoms, including fewer trips to the bathroom both day and night, less urgency, and fewer leaks and accidents! 

Moreover, a previous study suggested that pumpkin seed oil even helps men suffering from overactive bladder due to benign prostate hypertrophy (BPH). 

Overall, the findings suggest the oil works by calming bladder muscles and decreasing the number of involuntary contractions in the bladder… all in the matter of weeks!  

Sowing the seeds of relief 

So, this fall, don’t just admire the bright, orange pumpkin on your porch. Go ahead and carve into your jack-‘o-lantern and claim the health benefits hidden inside 

For a classic fall treat, try roasting the seeds with some olive oil and a pinch of sea salt. You can also enjoy pumpkin seeds sprinkled on salads or added to smoothies.  

Of course, you can reap the health benefits of this cultivated member of the Cucurbita family year-round by opting for pumpkin seed oil capsules, liquid drops, and gummies. Doses vary widely from about 100 mg to 2,000 mg, so make sure to consult with your doctor to find the right dose for you, especially if you’re looking for welcome relief from your overactive bladder. 

References: 

  1. “Pumpkin Seed for Overactive Bladder: Does It Really Work?” Healthline, 4/12/24. (healthline.com/health/pumpkin-seeds-for-overactive-bladder)
  1. “Pumpkin Seed Oil Extracted From Cucurbita maxima Improves Urinary Disorder in Human Overactive Bladder.” J Tradit Complement Med. 2014 Jan;4(1):72-4. doi.org/10.4103/2225-4110.124355.

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